how I finally got the nerve to ask for a recommendation letter

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Asking a professor for a recommendation letter felt like a mountain to climb. I was super nervous, but I realized it doesn't have to be awkward! Here’s what worked for me:

I drafted a simple email. I started by reminding them of the class I took with them and mentioned how their course really influenced my decision to apply for this internship. Next, I included the deadline for the letter and attached a one-page brag sheet highlighting my achievements and skills. This not only gave them the info they needed but made me feel more confident.

One thing I did that helped a lot was explicitly giving them an easy out. I said something like, 'I completely understand if you’re too busy right now.' This made it way less pressure-filled for both of us.

So if you’re wondering how to ask your professor for a recommendation letter, keep it straightforward and respectful—trust me, it’s worth it!

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